Jerusalem, 08/01/2002 (Agence Europe) - On Tuesday, CFSP High Representative Javier Solana informed diplomatic representatives of the EU countries in Israel about his recent talks with Ariel Sharon and Yasser Arafat. Mr Solana, who continues his new mission to the Middle East with visits to Jordan and Egypt, mainly told the press of the "major progress" made by the Palestinian Authority, which is seeking to bring about respect for an order to put an end to the attacks on Israel. A spokesman for Ariel Sharon pointed out, moreover, that the Israeli Prime Minister had discussed with Mr Solana about the inspection of the vessel Karim (loaded with arms which, according to Israel, were intended for the security services of the Palestinian Authority). He had again called on him so that the EU would put pressure on President Arafat to make him "give up terrorism". The EFE Agency points out, moreover, that, during his mission, Javier Solana "crossed" General Anthony Zinni, the US mediator for a ceasefire between Israel and the Palestinians.